How much time do you have?

Check every pipe, every connection.

• Confirm every connection and the surrounding areas are dry.  
• Run water for a few minutes and observe connections again.
• Check for signs of leaking in the past.  Some leaks are so minor that they dry up before leaking/dripping again.  The earlier you catch a leak, the less money repairs might cost.  
• Check the gas pipes with your nose next to each connection.  Using a gas detection device is best.  
• Check these as often as is feasible, at least 4x / year.  

• Remember to confirm it's the correct size and thickness for your furnace. 
• Check the manufacturer's recommendation first, but generally change the filter every one, two or three months.  
• A dirty filter can make the HVAC system work harder, increasing cost and possibly reducing the life span of the unit.   
• Clean out HVAC vents every few years or so to minimize dust that you breathe in. 
• Have a professional check your HVAC system to see if there are any issues that you should be aware of.  It's cheaper to get it inspected and know what might be wrong, than to have it go out at the worst possible time.  

To reduce the risk of fire:  

• Clean out the dryer vent hose regularly with a vent brush and/or a blower.
• Remove the rear wall (or more) of the dryer and remove the lint and dust regularly. 
• Clean the lint trap after EVERY single load.  Leaving the lint on the trap after a load also makes the dryer less efficient, taking longer to get the clothes dry.   Just take a second to clean it after every load.  
• Check behind the fridge and stove, and clean out the dust and any other debris that might possibly be a fire hazard.  
• Keep the oven and broiler thoroughly clean.  It's common for splatters to happen, and cleaning it regularly can help to discover pieces of food that has dropped down below the floor of the oven.  (Mice and ants love the foods that drop down there)

• Be sure to clean the condenser coil (outside the home) regularly.  This will help lower costs and prolong life.  
• Get a professional to thoroughly check the HVAC system from time to time, to see if anything internal needs cleaned as well. 

-  Look for evidence of leaks, pests or damage. 

-  Look for any holes, mold, etc. 

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